Chefs are one of the most in demand workers today, according to a new report from Jobs and Skills Australia. Based on the list and data, and in order of the number of vacancies for advertised positions, chefs are listed at number eight as a highly sought after role. Chefs are in such high demand that they have been added to the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) National Skills Priority List, along with pastry chefs and bakers.
The hospitality industry has not fared well in the era of the pandemic and great resignation. Many hospitality workers, chefs in particular, were shown to be expendable in their skills and this may have led to an exit in the industry or for those who have stayed on, in search of better working conditions or one that will suit their lifestyle.
Our industry may have risen from the challenges of the pandemic but it has changed the process considerably in order to combat the much-discussed hospitality staffing crisis. With the ability to choose the days and hours to suit, our chefs are on the path to strive for the work life balance without sacrificing their skills. Employers are, in many sectors adapting menus offering and employing casual and part-time workers to assist and backfill the roster shortages. It’s a challenging time for all.